The lifelike dolls have become so popular that regional carrier Thai Smile Airways, a subsidiary of Thailand’s flag carrier Thai Airways, recently instructed its staff to allow passengers to purchase a seat for their Luk Thep dolls.

Spirit dolls

Luk Thep are believed to possess a child’s spirit and bring good fortune, thus many Thais have taken to treating them like real kids.

The internal Thai Smile memo, being circulated among Thai media, says the dolls have to be buckled up like human passengers and will be served snacks and drinks.

As with real children, they’re barred from sitting in exit rows.

Don’t have a ticket for your doll?

It’ll be treated as carry-on luggage and stowed during takeoff and landing.

Safety concerns

Thailand’s Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) has taken notice of the issue, and is now reportedly discussing the matter with local aviation agencies and airlines to formulate a policy that complies with security regulations.

CNN approached several other Thai airlines for comment on the issue.

“We treat the dolls like any other dolls,” said Patee Sarasin, CEO of low-cost airline Nok Air.

“The customers can put the dolls on their lap while flying. If they want to buy a seat, it is the most expensive price possible. Therefore, we do not encourage customers to buy seats for the dolls, but we cannot stop them from buying another seat if they wish to do so.”

AirAsia, meanwhile, said it has no policy in place regarding Luk Thep dolls.

A Luk Thep doll is treated as a real child by its adopted “parent” and can cost as much as $362.